Resident Doctors’ Strikes Cost NHS £3bn as Health Secretary Claims Amid Latest Walkout

The NHS has reportedly spent at least £3 billion managing strikes by resident doctors since 2023, according to Health Secretary Wes Streeting, as the latest six-day walkout began at 7am on 7 April 2026. Government calculations estimate this current action alone will cost the health service £300 million.

The figures show this marks the 15th strike action by resident doctors – formerly known as junior doctors – in an ongoing dispute over pay and conditions that has stretched across three years.

The £3 Billion Question

Health Secretary Wes Streeting said the cumulative £3 billion cost could have funded new hospitals or reduced NHS waiting lists faster. Speaking to TalkTV, he argued that doctors cannot “hold the country to ransom” with repeated strike action.

The government’s calculations suggest each day of strike action costs roughly £50 million in cancelled procedures, emergency cover arrangements, and administrative disruption.

Where Negotiations Stand

The British Medical Association rejected the government’s latest pay offer without providing a counter-proposal, according to reports. The dispute centres on pay rises, with previous reference to a rejected 35% increase demand.

This breakdown in talks has left both sides at an impasse. The BMA maintains that resident doctors face cost-of-living pressures that justify better terms, as the government argues the financial impact is unsustainable.

Kent Services Under Pressure

Hospitals across Kent, including Medway Maritime Hospital and Kent and Canterbury Hospital, are managing disrupted services during the walkout. NHS Kent and Medway ICB is prioritising urgent cases even as elective procedures face delays.

Emergency departments remain staffed, but patients may experience longer waits. The strikes affect routine appointments, planned surgeries, and diagnostic services – though life-threatening cases continue to receive immediate attention.

Key Takeaways

• Resident doctors’ strikes since 2023 have reportedly cost the NHS at least £3 billion according to Health Secretary Wes Streeting
• The current six-day walkout starting 7 April 2026 represents the 15th strike action in the ongoing dispute
• BMA rejected the latest government pay offer without providing alternative proposals

What This Means for Kent Residents

Kent patients should expect disruption to non-urgent NHS services during the six-day strike period, with elective surgeries and routine appointments likely postponed. Residents are advised to use NHS 111 online or by phone for non-emergency health concerns, and to attend scheduled appointments unless contacted directly by their healthcare provider. Emergency services remain fully operational, so anyone experiencing life-threatening symptoms should still call 999 or visit A&E departments at Kent hospitals without delay.

Published: 7 April 2026

Source: @bmj_latest on X. This article has been researched and rewritten with editorial balance by Kent Local News.